Gear Review: The North Face Running
This summer The North Face began a program called “Role Models” that I fully support and would love to get more people involved in. The idea is basically to inspire YOU and someone else (who is going with you) to go outside and do something different. When you pledge and then share your pledge on their Facebook App with a photo and small blurb about how it went, you are entered to win some great gear from The North Face. It’s a win-win situation.
This summer I pledged to run and hike with my kids in Yellowstone. Mission completed (and documented!) It’s not too late for you to get your pledge in!
I even had the chance to do those runs wearing some great gear (great enough to tell you all about) from The North Face:
While the heat of the summer is definitely cooling off, I still am constantly reaching for the workout clothing that breathes the best (for indoor AND outdoor activities.) When I am too hot, I just completely wimp out and simply can’t find it in me to work very hard. I am one of those people that would rather wake up at 5 am to run than run in 80 (or more) degree heat. This summer I ran (and biked and hiked, etc.) with The North Face, putting in miles when I could and usually pushing a stroller (which makes everything just a bit more intense.) This review is months in the making (which are usually the best/most valid ones!) Comments/questions are welcome!
Single-Track Hayasa Running Shoe $110
I am VERY picky about running shoes, so I was highly skeptical with this pair of Hayasa’s showed up. My feet are wide, I have a couple favorite brands that I stick to and I tend to not branch out much. However, I found these shoes to definitely exceed my expectations.
What I loved:
- They are super light and flexible while still providing adequate support.
- They breathe very well
What I wasn’t so crazy about:
- While precipitation around here seems to be rather rare in the summer, we did have a few wet mornings. I was surprised to find myself losing my traction and feel a bit like I was on a slippery surface. Apparently the traction is much better for dry climates!
The best shirt I have found to keep me cool and comfortable running. True to its name, it does really feel like you are hardly wearing anything at all.
What I loved:
- Cool and uber-soft
- Dries quickly with minimal stink after a run
- Ventilates exactly where it needs to.
What I wasn’t so crazy about:
- Because it is so light, it tends to move around more with you and I found myself tugging at it a bit more than other shirts I wear (it’s just that light!)
What I loved:
- Light and airy, just like the T-shirt
- Back pocket that is the perfect size for my FitBit or iPod
- Quick-drying and comfortable (I actually went on a bike ride, wore these into the river and then biked home with no issues at all.)
What I wasn’t so crazy about:
- While they are light, they aren’t supportive/compressive if that is what you are looking for (which sometimes I am!)
The North Face generously provided me this gear to run with for this review. However, as always, the opinions expressed here are completely and honestly my own.
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The Bottom Line
Top recommended running gear for keeping cool (throughout the summer or at the gym!)
